“China’s weapon exports are defensive in nature, and after purchase, ownership and usage rights belong entirely to the recipient country,” former People’s Liberation Army instructor Song Zhongping said.

“China would not wish to see two of its traditional friends at war, even over territorial disputes,” he said, adding that Beijing would seek to facilitate negotiations and a ceasefire.

“Thailand is both a traditional friend of China and a traditional ally of the United States, while Cambodia has close ties with China.”

03:41

Thai government hangs by thread as leaked phone call shreds PM Paetongtarn’s credibility

Thai government hangs by thread as leaked phone call shreds PM Paetongtarn’s credibility

The assessment follows a report in the Bangkok-based news site The Nation on Friday quoting Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen as saying that his country had weapons “that can reach Bangkok”.